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Ear tags and ear pits
Ear tags and ear pits are small, common findings near the front of the ear. They are different from ear shape differences, and ear molding does not treat them. Your pediatrician will look at them as part of your baby’s exam.
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What they are
- Ear tag (preauricular tag or accessory tragus): a small bump of skin, sometimes with cartilage, usually just in front of the ear.
- Ear pit (preauricular pit or sinus): a tiny dimple or opening, usually in front of the upper ear.
Both are often harmless and can occur on one or both sides.
How they are evaluated
Your pediatrician examines the tag or pit and your baby overall. Because these findings can occasionally occur with other differences, the pediatrician may check hearing or recommend further evaluation, depending on what they find. Hearing and ear development.
When to call your pediatrician
Contact your pediatrician if a pit becomes red, swollen, tender or has discharge, as this can be a sign of infection.
Treatment boundaries
Ear molding reshapes the outer ear and does not remove tags or close pits. If treatment is wanted or needed, your pediatrician can refer you to the right specialist, such as a pediatric surgeon or an ear, nose and throat specialist. If your baby also has an ear shape difference, we are happy to evaluate that.
Questions about ear tags and pits
What is an ear tag or ear pit?
An ear tag is a small bump of skin near the front of the ear. An ear pit is a tiny dimple or opening in front of the ear. Both are common.
How are ear tags and pits evaluated?
Your pediatrician examines them and your baby overall, and may check hearing or suggest further evaluation depending on the findings.
Can they be associated with other conditions?
Occasionally. That is why your pediatrician looks at your baby as a whole. Many tags and pits occur on their own.
Does ear molding treat ear tags or pits?
No. Molding reshapes the outer ear. Your pediatrician can refer you to a specialist if treatment is needed.
Is there also an ear shape concern?
We evaluate newborn ear shape differences. Call 214-540-1428 if you would like an evaluation.